Vice President JD Vance announced during a rally in Tyler, Texas, that the Trump Administration is invoking the Defense Production Act to expand the local Delek refinery. Speaking to supporters, Vance said the project will significantly increase output at the facility that currently processes about 74,000 barrels of oil per day. The expansion aims to produce millions of additional gallons of both commercial-grade and military-specification fuel each day. He emphasized that the move should help lower costs for drivers and air travelers while strengthening energy reliability and national defense capabilities. The initiative forms part of the administration’s broader effort to boost domestic refining capacity amid ongoing global supply pressures. Local officials and company representatives have indicated the project could create hundreds of new jobs in Smith County. Vance framed the announcement as a direct benefit for Texas families and the broader American energy sector.

The Defense Production Act, a Cold War-era tool, allows the federal government to prioritize and support critical industrial projects tied to national security. By partnering with Delek on the Tyler site, the administration seeks to add meaningful refining capacity in a key energy-producing state. Details on the exact funding amount and timeline for the expansion have not yet been fully released by the White House or the company. Still, Vance stressed that the extra fuel production would translate into more stable supplies and potentially lower prices at the pump and for aviation. The announcement comes as the administration continues to highlight energy independence measures ahead of the midterm elections. Residents in the Tyler area are expected to see both short-term construction activity and longer-term employment opportunities if the project moves forward as described. Officials will continue working with Delek to finalize the scope and accelerate the capacity increase.